16. Startlingly Easy Way to Recognize a Cat

If you encounter a cat with three distinct colors—black, white, and orange—it’s likely a female with two X chromosomes. This unique color pattern, known as calico or tortoiseshell, is linked to the X chromosome in cats. While cat enthusiasts may be familiar with this genetic quirk, it’s not widely known outside the feline-loving community.

Male cats typically have one X and one Y chromosome, so they usually don’t display the calico coloration. Understanding this genetic phenomenon not only adds to our appreciation of cats’ diverse coat patterns but also provides insight into the fascinating world of genetics and inheritance.